Passing Out Relief

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Ephesians 4:32

One big, hot ride

I rode one hundred miles Saturday in one of the largest cycling events in Texas. The ride in Wichita Falls attracted thirteen thousand riders.That’s a bunch of people!

Volunteers staff rest stops along the course, providing snacks, fluids, and medical care if needed. Volunteers at one stop deep into the ride offered towels soaked in icy water. I was thrilled as the Texas temperature approached the century mark.

Some volunteer to be part of this major tourism event in their community. Others were National Honor Society students fulfilling community service requirements. One young child, however, was helping simply because she had been asked to.

The one that stood out

The precious girl, just two-years old, dutifully provided icy towels to each and every rider looking for relief from the heat. She was indiscriminate. She didn’t care where the riders came from, what their pasts held, or what their income is. She didn’t care if they were male or female, about the color of their skin, or their political convictions. She gave no thought to wether or not they deserved the gift.

She had been asked to care for others so she did so completely and faithfully.

Scripture commands to be kind to one another. We are told to “not let any unwholesome talk come out of our mouths, but only that which is useful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Ephesians 4:29).”

If we fail to do what the Bible commands can we identify ourselves as followers of Christ? We may recognize Jesus as the Savior of the world, but are we his followers?

I’ve thought about that little girl for several days. Her focus was set. Her determination was clear. Her commitment was certain. Her diligence was inspiring.